Best la roche posay cleanser for combination skin

Byrdie / Sabrina Jiang

It’s admittedly hard for any skincare brand to distinguish itself in a market where there are zillions of brands—and more launching daily. But La Roche-Posay is that rare unicorn, a cult classic that dermatologists love, consumers can’t get enough of, and that’s known for established hero products and innovative newbies alike. Add to the list the fact that you can get it at the drugstore and that the products are all super affordable, particularly as compared to their counterparts that boast similar types of ingredients. Oh, and it’s a must-have for anyone with sensitive skin. “La Roche-Posay products are allergy-tested, non-comedogenic, and clinically studied to demonstrate efficacy and safety, and most are well-tolerated, even by people with sensitive skin,” explains Dr. Devika Icecreamwala, a dermatologist in Berkeley, CA. 

There are plenty of La Roche-Posay goodies to choose from, but here’s what you need to know about the best of the best.

What We Like

• 48-hour hydration

• Goes on smoothly

• Clinically shown to reduce dry, rough skin

What We Don't Like

• Feels greasy to some

One of our favorite body moisturizers of all time, this is also a must-have for Icecreamwala, who lauds it for being extremely hydrating yet never greasy or sticky. However, if you want even more moisture, it also comes in a thicker balm variant. It's one of the only creams we'll put on and still get dressed right after. It hydrates for up to 48 hours, can be used on the face or body, and has earned the National Eczema Association's Seal of Approval, per the point of being good for sensitive skin.

Active Ingredients: Niacinamide | Skin Type: Extra Dry | Size: 6.7 or 13.5 oz. | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

What We Like

• Naturally rich in minerals

• Has antioxidant properties

• Mild, refreshing scent

What We Don't Like

• Results may not be drastic to some

“This gentle cleanser is perfect to use at night, effectively removing dirt, oil, and makeup,” says Icecreamwala. Still, despite this cleansing prowess (it even breaks down long-wearing foundation formulas), it’s crazy gentle. One of the cleansing ingredients, poloxamer, is so delicate that it can be used as a contact solution. In other words, no irritated skin here.

Active Ingredients: Micelles, Poloxamer | Skin Type: Sensitive | Size: 13.5 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: Yes

What We Like

• Dermatologist-tested

• Soothing and restoring properties

• Protects cracked skin

What We Don't Like

• May cause breakouts for some

One tube of this multi-tasker is sold every 15 seconds in European pharmacies. Multi-tasker is somewhat of an understatement to describe it because it truly can do it all. A combo of panthenol, shea butter, and glycerin makes it super soothing and nourishing. It is perfect to dab onto any irritation—rashes, burns, blisters, bug bites, and even diapers rash. But, it’s also the star of a viral TikTok beauty hack, doubling as a great makeup primer and highlighter thanks to the dewy sheen it imparts.

Active Ingredients: Dimethicone 1% | Skin Type: Dry, Irritated | Size: 0.05 oz. | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

What We Like

• Highly concentrated formula

• Minimal ingredients

• Intense hydration

What We Don't Like

• Pump functionality could be better

Icecreamwala says this serum is a choice for those battling rosacea (and for the record, she’s not the first derm who’s recommended it to us for this purpose). It touts ambophenol, an ingredient that helps constrict blood vessels to visibly reduce redness, fast, along with the brand’s unique thermal spring water, full of skin-soothing minerals.

Benefits: Visibly reduces the appearance of redness and soothes skin | Dosage: Moderate amount as needed in AM and/or PM | Skin Type: Dry, Sensitive, Redness-Prone | Size: 1.35 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

What We Like

• Balancing

• 48-hour hydration

• Maintains a protective skin barrier

What We Don't Like

• Feels heavy to some

A tried-and-true classic, this is one of those simple, no-frills moisturizers that everyone should have on hand at all times. It’s a gentle yet effective, oil-free formula that relies on ceramides, glycerin, and niacinamide to deliver moisture without ever feeling greasy. A universal crowd-pleaser, it’s great for all skin types.

Active Ingredients: Niacinamide, Ceramide-3 | Skin Type: Dry, Sensitive | Size: 2.5 oz. | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: Yes

What We Like

• Broad-spectrum UV protection

• Rigorously tested for skin tolerance

• Defends against free radicals

What We Don't Like

• May leave a white cast

This is the latest addition to the line-up and one we can’t get enough of. Along with plenty of offerings for sensitive skin, LRP is also well-known for its extensive portfolio of sunscreen options. Mineral sunscreens are ideal for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin but are somewhat notorious for often being drying or even chalky. That’s not the case here, thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid that ensures this formula hydrates for up to 12 hours.

Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 5.5%, Zinc Oxide 10.0% | Skin Type: Dry, Sensitive | Size: 1.7 oz. | SPF: Yes | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

What We Like

• Intense UV protection

• Soft, matte finish

• Lightweight

What We Don't Like

• Hard to use

Those who prefer chemical sunscreen formulations will love this makeup-skincare hybrid. On the makeup side of things, it instantly blurs away the look of fine lines and prominent pores and helps the foundation go on smoothly and more evenly. On the skincare side, you get that oh-so-important daily dose of (non-pore-clogging) SPF.

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 5%, Oxybenzone 6% | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.35 oz. | SPF: Yes | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: Yes

What We Like

• Smooths texture

• Absorbs fast

• Easy to use

What We Don't Like

• Can be drying to some

The ‘duo’ in the name refers to a combination of anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial benzoyl peroxide (in a 5.5% concentration) plus exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid. The former calms down red, inflamed blemishes while the latter keeps clogged pores at bay, a perfect recipe for clear skin. Plus, unlike many other benzoyl peroxide-containing products, Icecreamwala notes that this one isn’t overly drying.

Type: Daily | Active Ingredients: Benzoyl Peroxide 5.5% | Size: 0.6 or1.35 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: Yes

What We Like

• Can use alone or with moisturizer

• Gently exfoliates

• Allergy-tested

What We Don't Like

• Pricey

Another newbie, this is a must-have for anyone battling dark spots or hyperpigmentation. Along with the 10% concentration of exfoliating and brightening glycolic acid, there’s also tranexamic acid in the mix, a lesser-known though highly effective spot fading ingredient. You can use it solo or as a booster mixed into your favorite moisturizer and, in true brand fashion, can be used even on sensitive skin.

Benefits: Improves the appearance of dark spots and skin discoloration while revealing brighter, more even-looking skin | Dosage: Three to four drops in PM | Skin Type: Sensitive | Size: 1.0 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: Yes

What We Like

• Absorbs quickly

• Leaves skin soft

• Antioxidant-rich

What We Don't Like

• Smell is unpleasant to some

The hard truth of the matter is that it’s hard to find an affordable, effective vitamin C serum at the drugstore—consider this the exception to that rule. Not only does it contain a potent dose of vitamin C (and ascorbic acid, the most effective kind, at that), it also has salicylic acid to help keep pores clear too, great for anyone who is dealing with wrinkles and pimples. Bonus points for the addition of neurosensine, a soothing ingredient.

Benefits: Gently exfoliates and visibly refines skin texture and tone | Dosage: Moderate amount as needed in AM | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.0 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

What We Like

• Leaves skin feeling comfortable

• Retains essential moisture

• Not greasy

What We Don't Like

• Doesn't remove makeup well

If the micellar water is great for those with sensitive skin, then this cleanser is the one for anyone with normal to oily skin. It too boasts that thermal spring water, and gives a deeper clean, without stripping your skin's natural moisture and/or compromising your skin barrier, explains Icecreamwala. That’s because it’s both sulfate-free and touts skin-strengthening ceramides, a rare ingredient to find in foaming face wash formulas.

Active Ingredients: Prebiotic Thermal Water | Skin Type: Oily, Sensitive | Size: 6.7 or13.5 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

What We Like

• Mineral-rich

• Anti-aging benefits

• Repairing

What We Don't Like

• Feels a little sticky to some

This is no ordinary hyaluronic acid serum. It contains two different types of hyaluronic acid—one with a larger molecular weight and one smaller. Why does that matter? It means the two molecules can penetrate the skin at various layers, upping the hydrating power of this formula, which also contains hydrating vitamin B5 and that unique La Roche-Posay mineral spring water we mentioned before.

Benefits: Hydrates, plumps the skin, smooths the look of fine lines, and replenishes the skin barrier | Dosage: Moderate amount as needed in AM and/or PM | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.0 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

What to Look For in La Roche-Posay Products

Targeted Ingredients

La Roche-Posay produces a wide range of products. When choosing products to purchase from this brand, look for targeted ingredients that work to address your specific skin concerns. For instance, if you need skin-plumping, fine line prevention, moisturizing, acne-fighting, or other benefits, check the label for those claims.

Antioxidants, minerals, hydrating components, and sun-blocking ingredients are wise choices for everyone.

Product Type

La Roche-Posay creates various products for every aspect of your skincare routine, including face wash, toner, moisturizer, and targeted skin concern products. Consider what aspects of your current skincare routine are not serving you or what items you need to replace from your collection, and then choose La Roche-Posay products that fit into your routine. 

A solid base would be a face wash, toner, moisturizer, sunscreen, and at least one targeted skincare product, such as one for blemish control or fine lines. Additional products to consider are serums and multitasking balms.

Skin Type

Your skin type will determine which types of products you should look for when purchasing from La Roche-Posay’s line. Luckily, the brand caters to several skin types, including sensitive, rosacea, acne-prone, and aging skin. 

It’s best to know your skin type before making a purchase. Some beneficial products for dry or aging skin may not work for oily or acne-prone skin. Acne-specific products may also be too harsh for some people with sensitive skin.

FAQ

• What is the benefit of La Roche-Posay?

  The benefit of La Roche-Posay is its high-quality formulations that address specific skin concerns, including sensitive skin, dryness, acne, and rosacea. The products are well-researched and tested for efficacy and safety. La Roche-Posay is also a widely available and generally affordable brand.

• Do dermatologists like La Roche-Posay?

  Dermatologists like La Roche-Posay because they cater to sensitive skin and other hard-to-treat skin conditions. The products are clinically tested and available at drug stores for an affordable price. La Roche-Posay has been around since 1975, so the products have stood the test of time and are very popular with dermatologists.

• Is La Roche-Posay good for aging skin?

  La Roche-Posay is good for aging skin because the brand carries several products that target the concerns of those with this skin type. You can find moisturizers and serums that fight signs of aging, combat dryness, and provide vitamins and minerals to the skin. La Roche-Posay uses proven ingredients for aging, including retinoids and B3.

• Is La Roche-Posay good for acne?

  La Roche-Posay is good for acne because they carry several products that work well for this skin type. Some of their products contain acne-fighting ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide and niacinamide, while others are gentle for those who break out due to skin sensitivities. The brand also carries oil-free products so they will not clog pores.

Why Trust Byrdie?

Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. As someone with extremely sensitive skin, she greatly appreciates that she knows she can use pretty much any and every La Roche-Posay product and never have an issue.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Devika Icecreamwala is a board-certified dermatologist in Berkeley, CA. She’s the founder of Icecreamwala Dermatology, a practice specializing in both medical and cosmetic dermatology.

What type of cleanser is best for combination skin?

Is La Roche

Is La Roche

Which La Roche